About Us
1FUR1 Foundation origin story began over a decade ago. Animal-lover Michelle Djonova and her service dog, Ripley, began visiting assisted care facilities for the elderly with disabilities. One of their first encounters was with a woman suffering from Dementia and Alzheimer’s. In that moment, Michelle witnessed the “spark”—a sudden, inexplicable joy—and realized the profound impact of these visits. Over time, the woman grew happier, more engaged, and even started recalling childhood memories of her own dog.
This transformative experience ignited the idea to create an organization dedicated to helping animals heal people in need. By August 2014, that vision became a reality with the founding of 1FUR1 Foundation. With passion, determination, and a dedicated team of volunteers, 1FUR1 took off—pioneering life-changing animal-assisted programs that continue to bring comfort, connection, and healing to those who need it most.
“It takes one spark to make a connection with an animal and change a person’s life” — M. Djonova, 1FUR1 Founder
Partners in Hope
At 1 FUR 1, our mission is to create meaningful partnerships that enhance the lives of both animals and humans in need. Through our trusted network of nonprofit partners operating in select cities across 21 states, we provide essential support to programs that deliver comfort, healing, and connection. Organizations like Hearts and Hooves Therapy, Newfie Therapy, Kindred Spirits Therapy Minis, and soon Hero Pups, work alongside us to expand access to animal-assisted services. Our multi-year partnership strengthens these nonprofits, equipping them with the tools and resources needed to thrive. As part of the 1 FUR 1 Impact network, they grow into resilient forces for good, ready to make a lasting difference in the communities they serve.
Healing Together
Every 1 FUR 1 partner embodies the same mission—to help animals heal people in need. Though their programs vary, they share a deep commitment to making a lasting impact. As our network grows, we also celebrate the nonprofits that have graduated from the 1 FUR 1 Impact Network, achieving financial stability and operational strength beyond their founders’ lifetimes.
1FUR1 Trusted Network of Partners:
- Newfie Therapy at Spirit Cove – Supporting teachers, doctors, fire fighters, and other medical professionals battling burnout and psychological stress with the help of 18 affectionate Newfoundland dogs across the Southeast.
- Hearts and Hooves Therapy – Encouraging children with disabilities, foster care individuals, and hospital patients through uplifting interactions with miniature horses in Southern California.
- Kindred Spirits Therapy Minis – Providing veterans and elderly individuals with disabilities comfort and companionship through four loving therapy mini horses in the Florida Panhandle.
- (1FUR1 Impact Graduate of 2025) Canine Advocacy Program at Care House of Oakland County – Empowering crime survivors across Michigan by offering canine advocates to provide crucial emotional support throughout the U.S. justice system.
Together, these programs represent the heart of 1 FUR 1—bringing comfort, connection, and healing to those who need it most. As we continue to grow, so does our ability to support organizations dedicated to transforming lives through the remarkable bond between humans and animals.